Inputs
Results
How this take-home pay estimate works
This calculator starts with annual gross pay, subtracts pre-tax deductions, estimates federal taxable income using the selected filing status and standard deduction, then applies payroll taxes and any optional state, local, or post-tax deductions you enter.
Federal income tax
Uses the selected filing status, standard deduction, and federal tax brackets for the year shown in the calculator.
Payroll taxes
Includes Social Security and Medicare payroll taxes, using the Social Security wage base year you choose.
Optional deductions
Lets you add pre-tax deductions, state or local tax rates, and post-tax deductions for a closer estimate.
Example: estimating net pay from salary
If someone earns $80,000 per year, files as single, and contributes $4,000 to pre-tax benefits, the calculator estimates taxes from the remaining taxable income and then subtracts payroll taxes and any extra deductions. The result is a planning estimate, not a guaranteed paycheck number.
Your actual paycheck can differ because employers apply withholding rules per pay period, benefits may have different tax treatment, and state or local taxes may use their own brackets instead of a flat rate.
Sources and review
This page is based on standard federal income tax, Social Security, and Medicare payroll-tax concepts. For official rules and current-year details, check IRS guidance and your state tax agency.
- IRS federal income tax rates and brackets
- Social Security contribution and benefit base
- TheDailyo educational-use disclaimer
Last reviewed: May 4, 2026. This tool is educational and is not tax, legal, or financial advice.
FAQ
Why does my paycheck differ from this estimate?
Payroll systems calculate withholding by pay period and may include benefits, retirement contributions, reimbursements, bonuses, or local rules that this simple calculator does not model.
Should I use gross pay or taxable pay?
Start with gross annual pay, then enter estimated pre-tax deductions separately. That keeps the calculation easier to understand and makes it simpler to test different scenarios.
Does this include state tax brackets?
Not yet. The optional state and local fields use flat percentage rates. For a final number, compare this estimate with your state tax agency guidance or a payroll provider.